Business is booming, for Barneys New York, at least. The retail store known for its high-end merchandise and exclusivity may have plans to open a second flagship store in downtown Manhattan. According to WWD, sources claim that the retailer has been looking at multiple downtown real estate options. However, it won't be easy to find a space large enough to accompany such a massive operation. The current downtown location recently confirmed plans to close its Co-Op location on West 18th Street on March 1, but would look to open a new Co-Op with the second flagship store. Barneys will also face a sharp rent increase at its current Madison Avenue and Beverly Hills locations, which could also force the retailer into exploring new location opportunities. Current comparisons would require a 200,000-square-feet or larger location to launch a second flagship store. Let's see what the future holds for Barneys, it would be great to see an expansion of the New York staple.
[via WWD]